FALL RISK AND RELATED FACTORS IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the fall risk in patients with knee osteoarthritis with an objective computerized technique and to evaluate the potential risk factors for falls in these patients. Materials and Method: Patients with knee osteoarthritis and controls were included in this cross-sectional study. Gender, age, and body mass index were recorded. Pain was evaluated with a visual analog scale. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index was used to assess the patients and the Falls Efficacy Scale International was used for the evaluation of fall efficacy. Knee radiographs were recorded with the Kellgren-Lawrence grading scale. Fall risk analysis was performed by using the Tetrax Interactive Balance System. Results: One hundred patients with knee osteoarthritis and 30 controls were included. The age, gender, and body mass index scores were similar between the groups. Falls Efficacy Scale International scores were significantly higher in the cases than in the controls (p<0.000). Using a computerized system, significantly higher fall risk results (p<0.000) and significantly low, moderate, and high fall risk distribution were recorded in the cases than in the controls (p<0.000). Fall risk was significantly related to age, pain, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index scores of the patients. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated a higher fall risk in patients with knee osteoarthritis than in healthy individuals. This higher risk was shown even ina the early radiographic phases of the disease related to age, pain, and dysfunction. An understanding of factors on postural control seems to be critical in successful fall prevention in these patients.